Your New Addiction: Gooey Cheese Centers Wrapped in a Chewy, Golden Shell!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 16 bites | Difficulty: Super Easy | Dietary Note: Gluten-Free (Vegan Option Below)
Servings: 16 bites | Difficulty: Super Easy | Dietary Note: Gluten-Free (Vegan Option Below)
Ingredients
(Professional Tip: Use mozzarella string cheese for instant melty centers!)
- 1 tube refrigerated crescent dough (or gluten-free pizza dough)
- 8 mozzarella string cheese sticks , halved (or vegan cheese sticks)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for kick)
- 1 egg (or 1 tbsp almond milk for vegan) – for egg wash
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Oven:
Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.Assemble the Bites:
- Unroll crescent dough and separate into triangles. Cut each triangle into 2 smaller pieces.
- Place a cheese stick half and a sprinkle of cheddar in the center of each dough piece.
- Fold dough over the cheese, pinching edges to seal. Roll into balls.
Season & Bake:
- Brush bites with egg wash (or milk). Sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Bake 12-15 minutes until golden and puffed.
Serve Warm:
Let cool 2 minutes (cheese will be molten!). Dip in marinara, ranch, or pesto.
Pro Tips for Success
- Cheese Pull Hack: Freeze cheese sticks 10 minutes before baking for an extra gooey center.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese and egg wash substitute.
- Flavor Boost: Add diced jalapeños, sun-dried tomatoes, or bacon bits inside.
- Storage: Reheat in the oven for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
- Party Hack: Serve on a wooden board with dips and cured meats.
- On-the-Go: Pack in a thermos to keep warm for picnics.
- Kid-Friendly: Pair with ketchup or BBQ sauce for dipping.